Palace by Sam Smith is a deeply moving ballad that explores themes of love, loss, and reflection. The song describes a relationship that once felt like a palace, a place of grandeur and beauty, but has since crumbled. Sam Smith nostalgically reflects on the memories and emotions tied to the relationship, expressing both the beauty and the pain of having experienced such profound love. Key themes include heartbreak, the impermanence of love, and the bittersweet nature of cherished memories. Poignant moments in the song highlight the singer's acceptance and understanding that while the relationship may be over, the love they shared was meaningful and wonderful in its time.